Understanding incontinence and getting help

What's incontinence?

Incontinence (in-con-tin-ence) is the medical term for any accidental leakage of the bladder (wee) or bowel (poo).

Who does it affect?

Bladder and bowel concerns are actually pretty common in young people. More common than you might think. Fortunately, there’s heaps of ways to treat and manage it.

Who can help me?

If you've got an issue with your bladder or bowel, it's important to see a health professional about it as soon as possible. The sooner you get help, the easier it will be to sort out and the less chance it has of becoming more serious.
There are lots of different health professionals and services that can help with treating incontinence, like doctors, continence nurses, and other specially trained experts.

Still want to know more?

Living with incontinence

How to live in confidence with incontinence

Being confident and going out with friends

Bladder and bowel control problems can impact many parts of your life. In some cases, it can make you feel uneasy about hanging out with your friends. Lots of people worry that they’ll be teased if they have an accident in front of their friends. It’s normal to feel limited by incontinence at times, but by building your confidence you’ll be prepped to face any of life’s challenges.

Staying motivated

Feeling a bit hopeless? Worrying that your incontinence might never improve? Don’t worry, this is super normal. But there are lots of ways to help you stay on top of the instructions from your doctor. It’s important to stay motivated and make sure you’re giving your treatment your all.

Talking to people you trust

It’s not always easy to talk about bladder and bowel health, but there’s nothing to feel embarrassed about. Whether it’s talking to parents, friends, teachers or anybody else you trust, it’s easy to get a bit nervous or uncomfortable. But talking to people really can improve how you’re feeling. It’s often the first step in getting support and sorting out treatment.

Still want to know more?

For more support call the
National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66

Incontinence in Confidence is an initiative of the Continence Foundation of
Australia supported by the Australian Government under the National Continence Program.